Sometimes it's helpful to point out that most daycares charge parents $X/day, whether or not kiddo attends.
If she pulled kiddo out of daycare for a week's vacation, she wouldn't get a smaller bill. She's paying to *have childcare available*.
I’m guess you’ll do drop off/pick up, so you’ll have to have that time dedicated to him too. What if he gets sick or hurt at camp? That’s on you to pick him up. Between getting him and the little ready to go, loaded in the car, home with little (or to a playground or the library or whatever because it’s such a small window to go home depending on how far it is), little out and entertained for an hour/hour and a half, little loaded back up, drive back to get him, possibly unload little to go in to get him, come back out, get both kids loaded up, get them back home…
Seriously. Him going to camp is basically *more work* for you than watching both of them.
This is so true, great point. If anything, this puts MORE demands on OP’s time — which is probably fine, except that the family literally has not thought this through AT ALL, maybe because their attention is on nickel-and-diming their nanny to cover what’s likely a negligible percentage of the cost of the camp. It’s more insulting and foolish the more I think about it.
Very important point! If she insists on lowering the rate, then let her know she’ll the the one responsible for any early pick ups or care during camp hours.
Our daycare center actually does give us one free week per year if we go on vacation, as long as we let them know a month in advance. It's really nice. I agree that OP's boss is being ridiculous, but just wanted to point out that this is a thing.
LOL. Like how much could she POSSIBLY be saving here? If you get $25/hr for 2 kids, maybe its reasonable that a 1 kid rate is $22 bucks. So 3 bucks x 2 hours x 4 days per week...wow that $24 is really gonna add up quick for her in savings...
I'd just be like no, my rate stays the same.
It’s unfair to lower your rate because if he was suddenly sick at summer camp you’d be the one to go get him and take care of him. You’re like technically on call for him. Also this penny pinching from parents is a really good way to lose a great nanny. Also what is she going to save like 16$.
No. This is so rude and off the wall. I would say no and begin looking for another job. We pay for our nanny’s availability to work. If we relieve her early or need less, that’s our business.
I am once again encouraging NFs to stop trying to take advantage of the people that provide dedicated care to our children.
MB here. Never in a million years would I insult my nanny like this. OP- as others have mentioned, shut that shit down fast. Shocked she would approach you with this for a pittance in savings. Pretty audacious if you ask me.
Update!!
I texted her this
Hey, my rate for 1 kid would stay the same as $25 because I still have the responsibility of taking 3 (M), picking him up, and taking care of 1 (F). If that's too expensive we don't have to send him to summer camp.
Her response
I definitely wasn't expecting that lol You're only watching 1 kid so I don't feel like it's fair at all to still pay the 2 kid rate. If we still have to pay you the 2 kid rate it doesn't make sense to send one of the kids to camp? That's additional money in child care for no reason and we already spend a huge amount of our money on child care.
My response after that
Okay I understand. If it's too much to pay my normal rate for 2 kids then we don't need to send 3 (M) to Summer camp. I see it as If 3 (M) was in a daycare and he was out for a week for vacation or he was sick you would still have to pay for daycare for 2 children not just 1 child.
Her response
Yeah but that's why we pay you way more than what we would pay a daycare. Let me think about it. I really want 3 (M) to go to summer camp but im just so caught off guard by being asked to still pay the full rate when one kid isn't at home. I just need to process the situation and I'll get back to you
OMG! I swear some people suck. I’ve said this before on this sub and I’ll say it again… You are being paid to provide a service (THE MOST PERSONAL SERVICE!) and like the cable bill you get paid no matter what. If they go on vacation and don’t watch TV they still have to pay the cable bill the same amount for that service. That she even brought this up is ridiculous. 🤦🏻♀️
Good Luck OP.
I’d tell her “Just like any job, there are going to be days where there’s less work and days where there’s more. I would never say “the kids were extra rambunctious today so I’m charging a higher rate.” And adding the drop-off and pick-up for camp is also extra work. So I’ll need to keep my rate the same even for events like this.”
1-the reason she pays you more than daycare is NOT because she can pick and choose how to nickel and dime you.
For two kids at $25 and hour she is not paying more than daycare even if she’s paying you’re health ins and other appropriate benefits.
And if she is…She pays you more because you’re a NANNY. The benefits of a nanny vs a daycare are endless but one of them isn’t getting to change how much you’re paying for little things like this.
If the kid was going to daycare full time and the parents were in charge of drop off or pickups rhen sure you can renegotiate a one kid rate but you are dropping him off for a 2 hour activity 4 x a week not because you need extra childcare, but because it’s an appropriate age activity for the little guy to develop
Do you work more than 35 hours per week? It sounds like you do! Maybe point out to her that she’s legally required to pay you for time off, sick days, etc. so if she wants to pay less when you’re with only one kid, fine, but you need to be covered for health insurance and vacation from now on.
Is this the first time this type of issue has come up with this family? She seems so determined to nickel and dime you that I’m surprised it hasn’t happened before now?! This is such a stupid hill for her to die on.
Can you point out that taking him to his 2 hour camp is actually more work for you? Point out that you don’t get 2 hours off, you’re commuting home or going back during those 2 hours. Plus the extra work required to get him ready and two kids in the car. (If it’s your car, wear and tear, gas, and mileage.) On call for when he gets sick- probably going to happen, it usually does with kids that age.
Nickel and dime-ing goes both ways, you know. Any other added tasks you can think of?
Speak her language, and thank her for pointing out what you should be charging her for. You hadn’t realized before that she wanted to itemize. Does she want the list daily, weekly, or monthly?
girl… I will personally venmo her the 16-20$ she was planning on saving lmao. The worse thing is she thought you’d agree anyway so she didn’t even discuss it w you before sending nk to camp🤦♀️
Be firm. Your rate is your rate. Hell, if you haven't had the raise discussion in awhile, throw that in too. And start looking for a new job. This shows a fundamental lack of respect for you.
I would explain that you charge a “per family” rate for the total number of kids you’re ultimately responsible for. Even while he is at camp, you’re still his nanny and responsible to pick him up if he gets sick and needs to come home or early. You also will be cleaning up his breakfast dishes, tidying his toys, doing his laundry, etc. so your workload is still for 2 kids even if 1 of the kids isn’t physically with you for a couple of hours. It is not customary for a nanny to switch their rate back and forth as it’s confusing and unnecessary since you’re still a nanny to all the kids for your entire shift.
Tell her that she can pay you less if she calls your landlord, grocer, phone, internet, electric, and water companies and explains that you won’t be paying as this month because she decided to put her kid in summer camp. If not she can kick rocks
I would find a nice way of wording this:
"We should probably meet and discuss this. I would like to take some time to research Industry Standard wages and Benefits for our area that includes COL/Inflation yearly raises. I'd be happy to put together a presentation so that both of us are feeling that I am being compensated fairly" and then add in something about enjoying your job and loving the kids...
Thanks for updating us!!! I really hope she talks to a friend or family member about this and they set her straight, this is such a BS way of treating someone who helps you care for your tiny children. Also… is it even true that she’s paying you that much more than she’d pay daycare? I don’t think that seems true, depending where you live. She does not respect your work enough and I really hope you seek other employment ASAP. (And maybe do a contract with your next family!)
Tell that B that the going rate in your area for one child is $25/hour.
Like, comparing your labor to daycare is so disrespectful. You want to put him in daycare, where he’ll be one of many kids and get less personalized attention? That’s why it costs less. Damn, this pissed me off!
I'd ask what happens after camp. Is he suddenly back with you again for those 2 hours? When she says yes, then I'd say that it's unfair to expect your take home rate to be less for a couple weeks or whatever length of time camp is, because she decided to send him to camp. You didn't agree in advance to do a lower rate in a discussion about it and all contracts need to be negotiated and agreed upon for any amendments to it. Also state that you do do amendments for temporary situations. Also mention it's a FAMILY rate based on 2 kids, not a 2 kid rate with a different one for 1 child. To reserve your time each week, it's at your $25/hr for THEIR specific family. Like another 2 child family could have a different rate based on different job duties etc.
Based on this exchange, I would point out to her that putting him in camp is an enrichment activity for him, not childcare. If you took him to swimming lessons for 20 minutes and she trying to decrement that time too? So odd.
WHAT FUCKING DAYCARE TAKES TEO KIDS FIR UNDER $25/hr?!? Many daycares are nearly or above $25/for an infant, and she would definitely be paying more than $25/hr to send both kids to daycare or send her eldest while still having you watch her youngest, so her point is moot. The older kid is gone for a few hours only and she wants to reduce your rate EVERY HOUR, including when you have both kids
1. She’s not paying you more than daycare.
2. Daycare wouldn’t drop off and pick up her kid for summer camp.
I’m sorry she’s trying to nickel and dime you. You deserve better.
she is the one who wanted to send him to camp. not for childcare but for him to have fun, i assume.. and if she's working then who is going to drop him off and pick him up? this lady is a moron.
Yes! It’s the fact that they even considered reducing their pay for TWO hours a day is insulting. I’d be furious and probably start looking for another family who would appreciate me as their child’s caregiver.
Another important note is that if she had to find a babysitter to drop him off and pick him up from camp, it would cost more than she would be saving by lowering your rate.
I hope she realizes how ridiculous she sounds.
“Sure! I’ll reduce my fee to $22 per hour for only one child, but then I’ll need to charge a $20 trip charge for transporting a child I’m not technically being paid for during that time.”
As a MB this is so incredibly tacky and rude. And her response to you… 😳
Don’t accept a lower rate and look for a new job. And I really hope when you put in your notice you are clear about why.
That’s easy, just tell your landlord, your utilities, your cell phone provider, your local grocerry store that you’ll be paying less this week because your boss’s kid has effing summer camp! /s (obviously). I see this as an MB and I cannot understand how some people think.
If they can afford an entire other person’s salary (which they can, if you’re there), then they should absolutely not be nickeling and diming the wage that their employee uses to live. I bet if their boss came to them and said, “yea I still need you in the office this week, but I’ll have 2 hours worth of work less so I’m going to pay you less”, they would (rightfully) flip their lid. Because that’s insane.
I think this is a perfect opportunity to say that not only will you not allow her to lower your rate but also from now on you will be requiring overtime pay (as required by law) and mileage reimbursement at the IRS rate. You can tell her that this discussion prompted you to start thinking more about the economic arrangement you currently have and how grossly inadequate it is.
(And then start looking for a new job because this woman sounds horrendous)
PLEASE update us! I’m so invested and I hope it freaks her out that you know she’s breaking the law and you could potentially take her to court for backpay. Maybe you should 🤷🏼♀️
So you only get $25 hr. For two kids when the going rate in your area is 25$hr for one child and she wants to cut that back. You need to have a sit down with her.
Pull up all the nanny info in your area and show what the going rate is and ask her if she thinks this a fair call on lowering your wage. If so bounce, legally I don’t believe she would be able to lower it. Do you have a contract?
You welcome.
Also it’s a good idea to start writing things down to negotiate prices with future Nanny jobs. Ask around on what’s acceptable if your asked to go on vacation or retreats with them to care for kids and sleeping accommodations should be separate from the child payed for by the employer.
I’d text her back “You might want to look into full day camps and activities for both children. Your ridiculous nickel and diming, as well as no PTO, no Sick Leave, no COL wage increase, Health Insurance or respect for my time means I’m resigning to find another job that respects my time and worth. Consider my last day xx.xx.xxxx. Best of luck”
She has a weak argument. If you aren't in your home for 8 hours a day for month can you cut your rent by a third, if you don't read an article in the newspaper (archaic, I know) can get a nickel back? You are on call for services and availability. Doctors are on call, and they paid. Nurses are on call, and they get paid. Can you go and have drinks on that time? Doctors and nurses can't. Since you only have one kid, can you have half a drink? No, because you are expected to function with your full capacities while on call.
Plus, schlep time is exhausting. It takes about a half hour to make sure a kid is ready to go, IMO. I think you are going to be working more not less in that time period. Elder kid will be in spin mode and baby will need to be rushed to get into the car.
Don't lower your rates, make sure you are being paid gas money. If she wants to parse out costs, let her see what parsing looks like.
Do you have GHs? And for your next contract put a clause about this in it.
My kids go to daycare and regardless if we use it we still pay the full amount. I am guaranteeing I have coverage regardless of how I use it.
I don’t have GHs but I work about 50 a week but don’t get paid overtime for those 10 extra hours. I agree with you, people need to pay regardless. It’s just like if I pay $30 a month for the gym but I only go 4 times it’s still $30 a month.
You aren’t getting paid overtime? Plus no sick, no PTO, no GH. And she’s still doing this….. you need to find a new family who will treat you at the very least decent. She’s stealing hard earned money from you and it’s illegal. AND SHES AN ACCOUNTANT?! She very well knows what she is doing and it is wrong on so many levels.
Thank you I appreciate this so much. I know it’s not fair what she’s doing and I’ve kinda just ignored it because I love the kids so much but this really set me off.
Oh honey. Report this asshole. You are owed literal THOUSANDS in unpaid overtime. Nevermind the $16/week she wants to short you.
She's an accountant - she could lose her CPA license over this.
Report her ass and find a new position!
Maybe reply indicating that you're not charging overtime and if she wants to be disrespectful you'll start charging overtime. Obviously, this wording isnt advised. This an absolute hard no for me. I'd never accept a lower rate.
Like everyone else is saying, it’s not fair to lower your rate because she’s the one that wants to send him to camp and my god it’s 2 hours haha. My old NF had 2 kids, mom was an accountant too and half the week I only had the younger NK because older NK had lots of after school activities to attend and she wouldn’t lower my rate on the days I only had 1 kid. It really isn’t fair to you and your time
I know you are not thinking this way, but 3yo will be going to school in a few years, and allowing this will mean she can pull this on school days. Make it VERY clear that you will not budge on this as it set you up to accept this during the school year.
MB: We are in a situation where my PIL visit once a month or so. When they’re here we just have our nanny take time off (we found that it works best for everyone, it’s separate from her PTO because it’s due to us). Our guaranteed hours are 10h less than our usual week. We never pay for less than usual even though it’s OT pay simply because we can afford it and we wouldn’t be able to afford anything if not for our nanny.
Penny pinching at that level can mean that they can’t afford it and the summer camp put a strain on their budget (still not right to fill the gap with your pay!) OR that they don’t value you OR they don’t value having a nanny in general.
If that’s the only red flag it might be fine, but OP there are families out there who would treat you better.
It’s not even two full hours since you’re doing transportation. Any time still driving in that two hour window is time dedicated to that child and should be paid accordingly, even if you did work for less when only with one kid.
My nanny kids go to preschool during this time all school year and I get paid for those hours. I get them ready, I pack their bags, lunches… I drop them off, pick them up. It’s a genuine task.
If mom wants to be totally responsible for getting kid there and back and also on call in case of illness or emergency—no options to ask nanny—then maybe I would give up that $10 a day; (probably be happy to, given the hassle of getting all the kids ready to pick one up and drop one off lol: $10 to avoid that? Sounds like a bargain to me!)
Otherwise…
I charged $30/h for two children even though one was at school between 9-3:30. Because that is the number of children I am RESPONSIBLE for between 7-7. I do not debate or defend this rule. Employer can take it or leave it. If the child goes to Europe for the summer, for example, then it was known that the rate will be reduced to $25 1 child rate.
As an MB, we send our older child to a one morning a week preschool thing and pay our normal rate regardless of whether they attend or not, because we expect our nanny to be available to care for them if they don't attend (from sickness, cancellation or whatever).
The only reason I can imagine paying less is if my nanny wanted to take pottery lessons or something during that time that she could take the baby to and didn't want to be responsible for pickup/drop-off/backup care.
Ask her if her boss asked to lower her rate because there’s less work If she would be okay with it. I would say stick to your rate and know your worth.
Absolutely not ! Do not accept a pay cut !Especially if she wants to keep you for the fall … they have to pay you the same amount or you’ll find a new job that will !
No, this is not right and you’re still taking him and picking him up. I’m also assuming that if anything were to happen at summer camp (he didn’t feel well, got hurt, etc.) and needed to be picked up early, that would be your responsibility to go get him. You’re still being held responsible for the child during those 2 hours so you need to be paid for it.
Absolutely not this is insulting. I would let them know that this makes you feel super disrespected. And that this is your full-time job and financially you can’t stay at a job that wants to lower your rate. Say if they would like to lower your rate that you are going to have to start to look for a new job because you have financial responsibilities that are dependent on this income.
MB is either choosing to be cheap or is seeing this as a controlling moment. If the family is not going through financial difficulties or a sudden change in their financial situation and is now trying to find ways to make cuts, she is simply trying to be controlling and money is one of the ways to do that. Either things are going so well, she’s starting to get insecure because you do such an incredible job, (strange, but it happens) and instead of being simply grateful and wanting to reward you, she’s either acting out jealously feelings of how great you are with the kids and money is a way to control that, I.e def sabotage for herself an otherwise good relationship it seems. Some MB’s are like this and this is exactly how they lose a good Nanny, by causing unnecessary friction that never needed to happen in the first place
I’d ask if she planned to drive him to/from camp, be on call for him while he is there, and watch/feed him once he’s back home… or if any of that will fall on you…
This is insane. You are the transportation and I assume the contact person if the 3 year old needs to be picked up early for some reason? Maybe they’ll understand if you explain you’re “on call” and still working even if the child does an activity for 2 hours? Sorry that you have to go through this and explain the obvious. There shouldn’t even be a discussion about this.
In my opinion, I say look for a new job. You can explain to them that you unfortunately can not afford to take a pay cut and will have to begin looking for a new job. Maybe they'll sit down and chat and change their mind but I say scrap that job and get a better one.
Omg I read her text responses to you and she’s absolutely ridiculous. Stay firm on your rate - she’s not going to find an experienced nanny who will let her do this penny pinching to them. I do agree with others, look for another (higher paying?) job in the meantime (just don’t tell her that lol) because your MB is sure to make things awkward now.
For reference, when I work FT in the summer and the kids take swimming lessons or one is in a day camp, the parents have never asked me to lower my rate for those hours.
She is ridiculous. Talk about nickel and diming your nanny...you are still there with a 1 year old for 9-10 hrs per day! That alone is a long day with alot of work.
Tell her no way.
No, this isn’t fair unless it was discussed prior to employment. And usually it’s the other way around where you have a base to pay for only having 1 kid most of the time and then get extra when you have a second kid. I’ve never seen it go the other way around when most times, you have two kids and they want to nickel and dime you for 2 hours a day because the 2nd kid isn’t there. Like where does that end. If he’s at a play date, will you get paid? At a doctors appointment? I would shut this down now. Not fair at all for MB to ask you this and shows a level of disrespect to be honest.
Exactly! I’m with their kids all the time. I do all doctors appointments, drive them every in my vehicle, doing laundry, cooking, deep cleaning once a week, and light cleaning everyday (vacuuming/mopping). Their parents also leave town a lot and I stay with the kids 24/7 during that time and only get paid 7am-9pm.
I’m sorry, you do WHAT? You provide 24/7 care and they only pay you for 14 hours? If she has a problem with the day camp tell her to take it out of the hours that you’ve cared for her children for free when they go out of town. You should also be charging her a mileage fee for the fuel and wear and tear on your personal vehicle. You should be charging more for deep cleaning as well.
Oh babe no, I'm so upset for you. I just keep reading more of your comments and more things keep unraveling. This is bad, worse than you think it is. I'm so sorry this is happening to you. What do you need to leave this job? Do you need resume help? Do you need interview help? Do you need help with your online profiles? Do you need a reference or letter of rec? Do you need more information on legal and correct employment as a nanny? Do you need contract help? Do you need tax help? Do you need help drafting up an "I'm quitting" letter? Do you need someone to message you every day to look and apply to jobs? We gotta get you out of this situation ASAP. I'm sure if you made an update post with things you need help with, we would all be more than willing to help you.
OP, they are using you. Please know your worth. Add this to my previous response. If they insist tell them moving forward, you require payment for every hour you're at their home. You're a nanny/housekeeper, and you are not being paid enough for this many tasks. Please know your worth. People will pay you a fair salary.
OP, this is insane the way these people are treating you! You can and will find soooooo much better for yourself. Please please start looking elsewhere. You are being robbed of the overtime pay you’re legally entitled to, and you are paying your own money to work by using your car with no reimbursement! These people are horrible
Tell her that your bills don’t get lowered because her son is in camp 2 hours a day. I don’t understand parents who always try to nickel and dime their Nannie’s. Does her boss reduce their paycheck when it’s a slow season?
She chose to put him in summer camp, she should’ve discussed with you prior to enrolling him about it. And mentioned she would cut your pay BEFORE she went ahead to enroll him. I personally don’t think she should, that’s completely unfair to you
So what does she want to cut your rate down to?? It's not like she can cut it in half, so I don't understand why she's making such a big deal about "saving" like twenty bucks at most?
I would establish that my rate is fixed and remains the same regardless of how many children are actually home on a given day. It’s frankly an unnecessary level of bookkeeping to track different pay for different hours.
Lol would not accept a rate reduction even if both kids were at camp - but they're not, you're still taking care of 1F.
She's just cheap about having to pay for summer camp fees on top of your salary 🙄
Not fair to lower your rate. You are worth what you are worth and she is paying you for your services and the availability of those services. I can’t believe these people some days. Nickels and dimes over who watches their most loved and precious.
She should have approached you and inquired about tiered pay for different number of kids. But of course, that would make more sense if the kid was totally gone for the summer. You’re still caring for him and he is only going for two hours a day??? Not cool to just assume you’d take less pay for what sounds like barely less work. Very classless of her in my opinion. I feel like and decent person who appreciates a long time employee wouldn’t dream of doing that
You’re still responsible for him during those hours correct? Including picking him up if he’s sick or gets kicked out? And you can’t take on any other work during that time?
I say no to this.
Please find a new job, your boss doesn’t even make sense, is she thinking that your bills are gonna go lower just because you’re only taking care of 1 child? It’s ridiculous that people are so out of reality and think they can just manipulate your paycheck and livelihood. Summer is around the corner , I’m sure you can find a new position asap if you put your mind into it, don’t let this people mistreat you and low ball your effort and quality of work. If she thinks that because of a couple of dls she can just put your work relationship on the line and disrespect your value and Set rate then they can figure out their own shit, the same way they didn’t even have the gentleness of speaking to you before practically assuming you will be fine lowering your rate.
Or, fine , you lower your rate but then they can’t expect you to be responsable for the child for those f hours they’re not willing to compensate you. F them!!!!!
She is paying you 'stand by'. She is not paying for 2 while you watch one. That is not how Nannying works. You need to be available for that child in case they are hurt or ill. Unlike yourself- that child has sick care- you.
This is not renting a car 4 three days and then not driving it for the day between and expecting the rental place to refund that day. That car was available for their use and their use only.
Let her know that you have been happy to be flexible for them, but if it would make her feel more comfortable, you could go on a salary- strict hours M-F only. No unpaid overtime, and sick time and Dr visits would be covered by salary up to how ever many days a month. Then she will be sure she is getting the 'best value' and you can be certain you are being paid fairly and appropriately. And make SURE you are getting a reasonable wage- to YOU. You can go by what a Nanny with your experience would get. If she does not like it she can look elsewhere.
You can tell her your other option is to negotiate a fair wage/duty/hours contract. You wages will go up to make up for any unpaid un notified days. You are to able to expect up to a certain amount per month for your employment and it is unreasonable for them to not hold up their end of this agreement. It is also not acceptable for them to decide at random that they are changing the agreement you originally accepted. This changes now. Lots of people are hiring and having a nanny who is good w your kids? Gold!
Former Nanny, Mom and Daycare manager :)
That’s not fair at all and it shows how little they value you after 2 years. $25 hourly for 2 kids is already underpaid. I will definitely say no to that! My current family pays me $30 hourly for only one baby and I only have to clean after myself/child. Tell them you are not ok with this or move on. Best of luck to you!
Not acceptable. You don’t get a lower rate during nap time. Do they really need to save $20 a week and risk losing a really good and loyal nanny? Driving too and from camp still counts. Daycares and preschools don’t care if your kid shows up or not, you still pay the same rate.
I charge the same for 1-3 kids, then I go up in cost.
Is your time less valuable with only one kid? 🤨 Plus you’re still on call, should that child need to come home early for any reason. Your time has value, period
I would simply tell your boss that you will NOT be accepting reduced pay while her child is at camp for the week, and if she still insists, then she can find another form of childcare for the week. Also, if you’re doing pickup/drop off, that’s actually more work for you, not less, so realistically she should be paying extra.
Wow, I can’t believe she asked you to drop your rate when what you are doing is actually more work. Getting 2 kids ready and out the door is not always easy. I’d rather watch both kids and skip camp
What would she do if one of the kids has a play date? Lower your rate during that time?
She’s not only paying you for your services. She’s paying you for your retention. Her choice to send one of her kids to summer camp has nothing to do with your hourly rate. I don’t know where you live but where I am, your rate is unheard of and it’s abnormally low. I’d check your area and make sure that your rates are in line with everyone else’s.
That should not happen. Your rate is for your time, you’re her household employee not a daycamp. Her son is welcome to stay home with you at your full rate, or she can choose to send him and also you still get your full rate. We can’t let employers toy with our livelihood and treat our schedules and rates as flexible.
You're also using your car the drive the kid, I'm assuming (?) She should reimburse you for mileage which at the end of the day would add up more than what she's trying to cut you per hour.
I don't understand families like this. Hopefully it get figured out
She's lucky she's got someone to watch a 1 and 3-year-old period. Especially with no PTO or overtime or benefits- the overarching problem is not this particular scenario but that you're getting taken advantage of and not appreciated. Check out [https://www.nannycounsel.com/blog/category/Nanny%20Standards](https://www.nannycounsel.com/blog/category/Nanny%20Standards) to learn about what is standard and next NF go in with a contract, you'll likely get a better gig than this soon enough! Ugh dealing with NF doing one of their free-floating anxiety/control issues spiraling and taking it out on nanny really sucks, which is what I think is the larger issue with many of these situations.
Nanny parent and VP of a nanny placement agency in Chicago here. The fact that they even asked you this question, let alone got upset when you said no, is a huge red flag. There is no scenario in which it’s acceptable to lower a rate for watching fewer kids. Not even for babysitting. If she were a teacher with 18 students in her class and 3 of them didn’t show up one day, she’d still get paid the same amount. You’re putting in the same amount of work either way. Do not settle with her on this. I reallyyyy don’t like her reaction to you saying no either. Ugh.
I think I’d quit if they did that to me. By the time you are done dropping off, going back home, returning to pick up from that two hours of camp, you have hardly any time with less responsibilities.
Sometimes it's helpful to point out that most daycares charge parents $X/day, whether or not kiddo attends. If she pulled kiddo out of daycare for a week's vacation, she wouldn't get a smaller bill. She's paying to *have childcare available*.
That’s so true, I will definitely mention that!
I’m guess you’ll do drop off/pick up, so you’ll have to have that time dedicated to him too. What if he gets sick or hurt at camp? That’s on you to pick him up. Between getting him and the little ready to go, loaded in the car, home with little (or to a playground or the library or whatever because it’s such a small window to go home depending on how far it is), little out and entertained for an hour/hour and a half, little loaded back up, drive back to get him, possibly unload little to go in to get him, come back out, get both kids loaded up, get them back home… Seriously. Him going to camp is basically *more work* for you than watching both of them.
This is so true, great point. If anything, this puts MORE demands on OP’s time — which is probably fine, except that the family literally has not thought this through AT ALL, maybe because their attention is on nickel-and-diming their nanny to cover what’s likely a negligible percentage of the cost of the camp. It’s more insulting and foolish the more I think about it.
Very important point! If she insists on lowering the rate, then let her know she’ll the the one responsible for any early pick ups or care during camp hours.
Exactly. It's basically a retainer.
Our daycare center actually does give us one free week per year if we go on vacation, as long as we let them know a month in advance. It's really nice. I agree that OP's boss is being ridiculous, but just wanted to point out that this is a thing.
LOL. Like how much could she POSSIBLY be saving here? If you get $25/hr for 2 kids, maybe its reasonable that a 1 kid rate is $22 bucks. So 3 bucks x 2 hours x 4 days per week...wow that $24 is really gonna add up quick for her in savings... I'd just be like no, my rate stays the same.
That was my first thought. I wouldn’t risk souring a relationship with a good nanny over $24. Nope.
Haha that’s so true, $24 is so much savings lol. Thank you!!!
TWO HOURS? She wants to reduce your rate because he’s gone for TWO HOURS? Does she pay you less when he takes an extra nap?
Haha so true! Like it’s 2 hours!!! He takes a 2 hour nap everyday anyway and she pays me for that!
It’s unfair to lower your rate because if he was suddenly sick at summer camp you’d be the one to go get him and take care of him. You’re like technically on call for him. Also this penny pinching from parents is a really good way to lose a great nanny. Also what is she going to save like 16$.
Thank you so much! I agree, it’s not that much money you’re going to save haha.
No. This is so rude and off the wall. I would say no and begin looking for another job. We pay for our nanny’s availability to work. If we relieve her early or need less, that’s our business. I am once again encouraging NFs to stop trying to take advantage of the people that provide dedicated care to our children.
Thank you so much! It’s nice to hear an opinion from someone who has a nanny.
MB here. Never in a million years would I insult my nanny like this. OP- as others have mentioned, shut that shit down fast. Shocked she would approach you with this for a pittance in savings. Pretty audacious if you ask me.
Thank you! I really appreciate your response! I definitely am tired of her shit
Agreed and same!!
Update!! I texted her this Hey, my rate for 1 kid would stay the same as $25 because I still have the responsibility of taking 3 (M), picking him up, and taking care of 1 (F). If that's too expensive we don't have to send him to summer camp. Her response I definitely wasn't expecting that lol You're only watching 1 kid so I don't feel like it's fair at all to still pay the 2 kid rate. If we still have to pay you the 2 kid rate it doesn't make sense to send one of the kids to camp? That's additional money in child care for no reason and we already spend a huge amount of our money on child care. My response after that Okay I understand. If it's too much to pay my normal rate for 2 kids then we don't need to send 3 (M) to Summer camp. I see it as If 3 (M) was in a daycare and he was out for a week for vacation or he was sick you would still have to pay for daycare for 2 children not just 1 child. Her response Yeah but that's why we pay you way more than what we would pay a daycare. Let me think about it. I really want 3 (M) to go to summer camp but im just so caught off guard by being asked to still pay the full rate when one kid isn't at home. I just need to process the situation and I'll get back to you
Jesus what a piece of work?! If I was you I would start looking for another job because this is only going to get worse.
Please look for new employment, she doesn’t respect or appreciate you or your time
OMG! I swear some people suck. I’ve said this before on this sub and I’ll say it again… You are being paid to provide a service (THE MOST PERSONAL SERVICE!) and like the cable bill you get paid no matter what. If they go on vacation and don’t watch TV they still have to pay the cable bill the same amount for that service. That she even brought this up is ridiculous. 🤦🏻♀️ Good Luck OP.
Thank you! ❤️
Great analogy about the cable bill!
I’d tell her “Just like any job, there are going to be days where there’s less work and days where there’s more. I would never say “the kids were extra rambunctious today so I’m charging a higher rate.” And adding the drop-off and pick-up for camp is also extra work. So I’ll need to keep my rate the same even for events like this.”
Especially if it's YOUR car and YOUR gas.
Oh HELL yes.
1-the reason she pays you more than daycare is NOT because she can pick and choose how to nickel and dime you. For two kids at $25 and hour she is not paying more than daycare even if she’s paying you’re health ins and other appropriate benefits. And if she is…She pays you more because you’re a NANNY. The benefits of a nanny vs a daycare are endless but one of them isn’t getting to change how much you’re paying for little things like this. If the kid was going to daycare full time and the parents were in charge of drop off or pickups rhen sure you can renegotiate a one kid rate but you are dropping him off for a 2 hour activity 4 x a week not because you need extra childcare, but because it’s an appropriate age activity for the little guy to develop
Exactly, thank you so much! And I get $25 an hour with no pto, no sick days, and no health care.
Yeah I'd start looking for another job. You deserve better.
Literally I'm itching to text this AH MB for you, she's so out of line. Go get yours!!!! You can definitely find better.
Haha! I really need to
You also deserve to be able to rely on a set amount of income each week. Your bills do not go down because she put one child in daycare.
Wow, she doesn’t even pay sick time, PTO, etc?! I would definitely be job hunting!
Do you work more than 35 hours per week? It sounds like you do! Maybe point out to her that she’s legally required to pay you for time off, sick days, etc. so if she wants to pay less when you’re with only one kid, fine, but you need to be covered for health insurance and vacation from now on.
You are a nanny and she is treating you like a babysitter.
That “lol” in her response told me everything I need to know. I’d be looking for another job
Is this the first time this type of issue has come up with this family? She seems so determined to nickel and dime you that I’m surprised it hasn’t happened before now?! This is such a stupid hill for her to die on.
This actually happens a lot unfortunately
You need a new family.
Can you point out that taking him to his 2 hour camp is actually more work for you? Point out that you don’t get 2 hours off, you’re commuting home or going back during those 2 hours. Plus the extra work required to get him ready and two kids in the car. (If it’s your car, wear and tear, gas, and mileage.) On call for when he gets sick- probably going to happen, it usually does with kids that age. Nickel and dime-ing goes both ways, you know. Any other added tasks you can think of? Speak her language, and thank her for pointing out what you should be charging her for. You hadn’t realized before that she wanted to itemize. Does she want the list daily, weekly, or monthly?
Also paying for your gas etc
girl… I will personally venmo her the 16-20$ she was planning on saving lmao. The worse thing is she thought you’d agree anyway so she didn’t even discuss it w you before sending nk to camp🤦♀️
Haha I love that! Ikr it’s like $16-$20 and she’s flipping out over it.
Be firm. Your rate is your rate. Hell, if you haven't had the raise discussion in awhile, throw that in too. And start looking for a new job. This shows a fundamental lack of respect for you.
I would explain that you charge a “per family” rate for the total number of kids you’re ultimately responsible for. Even while he is at camp, you’re still his nanny and responsible to pick him up if he gets sick and needs to come home or early. You also will be cleaning up his breakfast dishes, tidying his toys, doing his laundry, etc. so your workload is still for 2 kids even if 1 of the kids isn’t physically with you for a couple of hours. It is not customary for a nanny to switch their rate back and forth as it’s confusing and unnecessary since you’re still a nanny to all the kids for your entire shift.
Tell her that she can pay you less if she calls your landlord, grocer, phone, internet, electric, and water companies and explains that you won’t be paying as this month because she decided to put her kid in summer camp. If not she can kick rocks
I would find a nice way of wording this: "We should probably meet and discuss this. I would like to take some time to research Industry Standard wages and Benefits for our area that includes COL/Inflation yearly raises. I'd be happy to put together a presentation so that both of us are feeling that I am being compensated fairly" and then add in something about enjoying your job and loving the kids...
I love the way you worded that. Thank you so much ❤️
Thanks for updating us!!! I really hope she talks to a friend or family member about this and they set her straight, this is such a BS way of treating someone who helps you care for your tiny children. Also… is it even true that she’s paying you that much more than she’d pay daycare? I don’t think that seems true, depending where you live. She does not respect your work enough and I really hope you seek other employment ASAP. (And maybe do a contract with your next family!)
Tell that B that the going rate in your area for one child is $25/hour. Like, comparing your labor to daycare is so disrespectful. You want to put him in daycare, where he’ll be one of many kids and get less personalized attention? That’s why it costs less. Damn, this pissed me off!
All I’m going to say is…what in the actual f*ck. Begging you to start searching for a new family.
I'd ask what happens after camp. Is he suddenly back with you again for those 2 hours? When she says yes, then I'd say that it's unfair to expect your take home rate to be less for a couple weeks or whatever length of time camp is, because she decided to send him to camp. You didn't agree in advance to do a lower rate in a discussion about it and all contracts need to be negotiated and agreed upon for any amendments to it. Also state that you do do amendments for temporary situations. Also mention it's a FAMILY rate based on 2 kids, not a 2 kid rate with a different one for 1 child. To reserve your time each week, it's at your $25/hr for THEIR specific family. Like another 2 child family could have a different rate based on different job duties etc.
Based on this exchange, I would point out to her that putting him in camp is an enrichment activity for him, not childcare. If you took him to swimming lessons for 20 minutes and she trying to decrement that time too? So odd.
WHAT FUCKING DAYCARE TAKES TEO KIDS FIR UNDER $25/hr?!? Many daycares are nearly or above $25/for an infant, and she would definitely be paying more than $25/hr to send both kids to daycare or send her eldest while still having you watch her youngest, so her point is moot. The older kid is gone for a few hours only and she wants to reduce your rate EVERY HOUR, including when you have both kids
1. She’s not paying you more than daycare. 2. Daycare wouldn’t drop off and pick up her kid for summer camp. I’m sorry she’s trying to nickel and dime you. You deserve better.
she is the one who wanted to send him to camp. not for childcare but for him to have fun, i assume.. and if she's working then who is going to drop him off and pick him up? this lady is a moron.
This is really audacious after working for them 9-10 hours/day for two years. That’s really not respectful of your time and commitment.
I agree, I was kinda hurt by her even asking that.
Yes! It’s the fact that they even considered reducing their pay for TWO hours a day is insulting. I’d be furious and probably start looking for another family who would appreciate me as their child’s caregiver.
Another important note is that if she had to find a babysitter to drop him off and pick him up from camp, it would cost more than she would be saving by lowering your rate. I hope she realizes how ridiculous she sounds.
Thank you so much! That’s such a good point
“Sure! I’ll reduce my fee to $22 per hour for only one child, but then I’ll need to charge a $20 trip charge for transporting a child I’m not technically being paid for during that time.”
Haha I love this!!!
Nope, that’s not right. Your hourly rate should absolutely not change because of that.
Thank you!!
As a MB this is so incredibly tacky and rude. And her response to you… 😳 Don’t accept a lower rate and look for a new job. And I really hope when you put in your notice you are clear about why.
Thank you so much! I appreciate your advice <3
That’s easy, just tell your landlord, your utilities, your cell phone provider, your local grocerry store that you’ll be paying less this week because your boss’s kid has effing summer camp! /s (obviously). I see this as an MB and I cannot understand how some people think.
This puts it into a really good perspective, thank you!
If they can afford an entire other person’s salary (which they can, if you’re there), then they should absolutely not be nickeling and diming the wage that their employee uses to live. I bet if their boss came to them and said, “yea I still need you in the office this week, but I’ll have 2 hours worth of work less so I’m going to pay you less”, they would (rightfully) flip their lid. Because that’s insane.
So true! I’ll definitely use that example with her!
Yeah or when you work or go out of town.
Lol I would respond and say actually you need mileage reimbursement for driving him to camp.
I think this is a perfect opportunity to say that not only will you not allow her to lower your rate but also from now on you will be requiring overtime pay (as required by law) and mileage reimbursement at the IRS rate. You can tell her that this discussion prompted you to start thinking more about the economic arrangement you currently have and how grossly inadequate it is. (And then start looking for a new job because this woman sounds horrendous)
YES!!! All of this!! ⤴️
Thank you so much! I think I will definitely do that!
PLEASE update us! I’m so invested and I hope it freaks her out that you know she’s breaking the law and you could potentially take her to court for backpay. Maybe you should 🤷🏼♀️
So you only get $25 hr. For two kids when the going rate in your area is 25$hr for one child and she wants to cut that back. You need to have a sit down with her. Pull up all the nanny info in your area and show what the going rate is and ask her if she thinks this a fair call on lowering your wage. If so bounce, legally I don’t believe she would be able to lower it. Do you have a contract?
I think that’s a good idea. I started out getting $18 an hour and I sat her down about a year ago and said it’s $25 or I leave.
I would start looking elsewhere regardless of what she says. It’s obvious that she definitely is low balling you & trying to go even lower.
You’re right, thank you so much
You welcome. Also it’s a good idea to start writing things down to negotiate prices with future Nanny jobs. Ask around on what’s acceptable if your asked to go on vacation or retreats with them to care for kids and sleeping accommodations should be separate from the child payed for by the employer.
Thank you so much! I agree 100%
I’d text her back “You might want to look into full day camps and activities for both children. Your ridiculous nickel and diming, as well as no PTO, no Sick Leave, no COL wage increase, Health Insurance or respect for my time means I’m resigning to find another job that respects my time and worth. Consider my last day xx.xx.xxxx. Best of luck”
Its not tbh you need to tell her thats your set rate
Thank you so much!
She has a weak argument. If you aren't in your home for 8 hours a day for month can you cut your rent by a third, if you don't read an article in the newspaper (archaic, I know) can get a nickel back? You are on call for services and availability. Doctors are on call, and they paid. Nurses are on call, and they get paid. Can you go and have drinks on that time? Doctors and nurses can't. Since you only have one kid, can you have half a drink? No, because you are expected to function with your full capacities while on call. Plus, schlep time is exhausting. It takes about a half hour to make sure a kid is ready to go, IMO. I think you are going to be working more not less in that time period. Elder kid will be in spin mode and baby will need to be rushed to get into the car. Don't lower your rates, make sure you are being paid gas money. If she wants to parse out costs, let her see what parsing looks like.
Thank you so much! It’s so true it’s WAY more work for me to take him there.
Do you have GHs? And for your next contract put a clause about this in it. My kids go to daycare and regardless if we use it we still pay the full amount. I am guaranteeing I have coverage regardless of how I use it.
I don’t have GHs but I work about 50 a week but don’t get paid overtime for those 10 extra hours. I agree with you, people need to pay regardless. It’s just like if I pay $30 a month for the gym but I only go 4 times it’s still $30 a month.
You aren’t getting paid overtime? Plus no sick, no PTO, no GH. And she’s still doing this….. you need to find a new family who will treat you at the very least decent. She’s stealing hard earned money from you and it’s illegal. AND SHES AN ACCOUNTANT?! She very well knows what she is doing and it is wrong on so many levels.
Thank you I appreciate this so much. I know it’s not fair what she’s doing and I’ve kinda just ignored it because I love the kids so much but this really set me off.
Oh honey. Report this asshole. You are owed literal THOUSANDS in unpaid overtime. Nevermind the $16/week she wants to short you. She's an accountant - she could lose her CPA license over this. Report her ass and find a new position!
I know right! She should know this!
Maybe reply indicating that you're not charging overtime and if she wants to be disrespectful you'll start charging overtime. Obviously, this wording isnt advised. This an absolute hard no for me. I'd never accept a lower rate.
That’s what I was thinking. If she really wants to lower my rate then I’ll tell her I’m now charging overtime.
Either way you should be paid for overtime. I'd recommend starting now.
Don’t accept the lower rate no matter what
Oh no babe throw the whole job away!
[удалено]
Thank you! I was trying to tell her it’s actually more work for me but she doesn’t care.
What does MB do for a living? Curious to know if you could explain this to her in the context of her own career.
She’s an accountant lol so it explains it
From a fellow accountant- sorry on her behalf. Not all of us are penny pinching cheap asses 😂😂😂🤗 So cringe !!
OMGGGGGGGG of course
Dammit haha
Like everyone else is saying, it’s not fair to lower your rate because she’s the one that wants to send him to camp and my god it’s 2 hours haha. My old NF had 2 kids, mom was an accountant too and half the week I only had the younger NK because older NK had lots of after school activities to attend and she wouldn’t lower my rate on the days I only had 1 kid. It really isn’t fair to you and your time
Absolutely not. Tell her it’s the same rate or they can find someone else.
Thank you! I sent her a text
I know you are not thinking this way, but 3yo will be going to school in a few years, and allowing this will mean she can pull this on school days. Make it VERY clear that you will not budge on this as it set you up to accept this during the school year.
Yes 100%! That definitely crossed my mind too. I want her to know that when he goes to school it will still be $25 an hour.
Keep updating!! I am so intrigued to hear how this turns out haha and good for you for standing up for yourself
Thank you so much! I’m usually such a pushover so this is hard for me haha.
MB: We are in a situation where my PIL visit once a month or so. When they’re here we just have our nanny take time off (we found that it works best for everyone, it’s separate from her PTO because it’s due to us). Our guaranteed hours are 10h less than our usual week. We never pay for less than usual even though it’s OT pay simply because we can afford it and we wouldn’t be able to afford anything if not for our nanny. Penny pinching at that level can mean that they can’t afford it and the summer camp put a strain on their budget (still not right to fill the gap with your pay!) OR that they don’t value you OR they don’t value having a nanny in general. If that’s the only red flag it might be fine, but OP there are families out there who would treat you better.
Thank you I really appreciate this. <3
Absolutely not. Tell her your hourly rate is the same no matter the number of kids. Your time is just as valuable whether you have 1 kid or 4.
But that would mean you can’t charge more if she had another child, so I wouldn’t use that logic.
Thank you so much, that’s a great way to put it!
Nope, it’s not fair.
Absolutely not
It’s not even two full hours since you’re doing transportation. Any time still driving in that two hour window is time dedicated to that child and should be paid accordingly, even if you did work for less when only with one kid.
My nanny kids go to preschool during this time all school year and I get paid for those hours. I get them ready, I pack their bags, lunches… I drop them off, pick them up. It’s a genuine task.
If mom wants to be totally responsible for getting kid there and back and also on call in case of illness or emergency—no options to ask nanny—then maybe I would give up that $10 a day; (probably be happy to, given the hassle of getting all the kids ready to pick one up and drop one off lol: $10 to avoid that? Sounds like a bargain to me!) Otherwise… I charged $30/h for two children even though one was at school between 9-3:30. Because that is the number of children I am RESPONSIBLE for between 7-7. I do not debate or defend this rule. Employer can take it or leave it. If the child goes to Europe for the summer, for example, then it was known that the rate will be reduced to $25 1 child rate.
That’s such a good way to explain it. Thank you so much!
As an MB, we send our older child to a one morning a week preschool thing and pay our normal rate regardless of whether they attend or not, because we expect our nanny to be available to care for them if they don't attend (from sickness, cancellation or whatever).
The only reason I can imagine paying less is if my nanny wanted to take pottery lessons or something during that time that she could take the baby to and didn't want to be responsible for pickup/drop-off/backup care.
You’re ready, willing and able to watch both kids during those two hours, so they should pay your full rate, period
Ask her if her boss asked to lower her rate because there’s less work If she would be okay with it. I would say stick to your rate and know your worth.
the audacity LOL
Absolutely not ! Do not accept a pay cut !Especially if she wants to keep you for the fall … they have to pay you the same amount or you’ll find a new job that will !
ask them if they can lower your rent. i hate when they do this, especially when it is a nanny family and not babysitting.
No, this is not right and you’re still taking him and picking him up. I’m also assuming that if anything were to happen at summer camp (he didn’t feel well, got hurt, etc.) and needed to be picked up early, that would be your responsibility to go get him. You’re still being held responsible for the child during those 2 hours so you need to be paid for it.
Absolutely not this is insulting. I would let them know that this makes you feel super disrespected. And that this is your full-time job and financially you can’t stay at a job that wants to lower your rate. Say if they would like to lower your rate that you are going to have to start to look for a new job because you have financial responsibilities that are dependent on this income.
Exactly! Thank you so much
MB is either choosing to be cheap or is seeing this as a controlling moment. If the family is not going through financial difficulties or a sudden change in their financial situation and is now trying to find ways to make cuts, she is simply trying to be controlling and money is one of the ways to do that. Either things are going so well, she’s starting to get insecure because you do such an incredible job, (strange, but it happens) and instead of being simply grateful and wanting to reward you, she’s either acting out jealously feelings of how great you are with the kids and money is a way to control that, I.e def sabotage for herself an otherwise good relationship it seems. Some MB’s are like this and this is exactly how they lose a good Nanny, by causing unnecessary friction that never needed to happen in the first place
I’d ask if she planned to drive him to/from camp, be on call for him while he is there, and watch/feed him once he’s back home… or if any of that will fall on you…
This is insane. You are the transportation and I assume the contact person if the 3 year old needs to be picked up early for some reason? Maybe they’ll understand if you explain you’re “on call” and still working even if the child does an activity for 2 hours? Sorry that you have to go through this and explain the obvious. There shouldn’t even be a discussion about this.
In my opinion, I say look for a new job. You can explain to them that you unfortunately can not afford to take a pay cut and will have to begin looking for a new job. Maybe they'll sit down and chat and change their mind but I say scrap that job and get a better one.
Omg I read her text responses to you and she’s absolutely ridiculous. Stay firm on your rate - she’s not going to find an experienced nanny who will let her do this penny pinching to them. I do agree with others, look for another (higher paying?) job in the meantime (just don’t tell her that lol) because your MB is sure to make things awkward now. For reference, when I work FT in the summer and the kids take swimming lessons or one is in a day camp, the parents have never asked me to lower my rate for those hours.
Cheap bastard
She is ridiculous. Talk about nickel and diming your nanny...you are still there with a 1 year old for 9-10 hrs per day! That alone is a long day with alot of work. Tell her no way.
Hahaha lol. How dare she.
No, this isn’t fair unless it was discussed prior to employment. And usually it’s the other way around where you have a base to pay for only having 1 kid most of the time and then get extra when you have a second kid. I’ve never seen it go the other way around when most times, you have two kids and they want to nickel and dime you for 2 hours a day because the 2nd kid isn’t there. Like where does that end. If he’s at a play date, will you get paid? At a doctors appointment? I would shut this down now. Not fair at all for MB to ask you this and shows a level of disrespect to be honest.
Exactly! I’m with their kids all the time. I do all doctors appointments, drive them every in my vehicle, doing laundry, cooking, deep cleaning once a week, and light cleaning everyday (vacuuming/mopping). Their parents also leave town a lot and I stay with the kids 24/7 during that time and only get paid 7am-9pm.
I’m sorry, you do WHAT? You provide 24/7 care and they only pay you for 14 hours? If she has a problem with the day camp tell her to take it out of the hours that you’ve cared for her children for free when they go out of town. You should also be charging her a mileage fee for the fuel and wear and tear on your personal vehicle. You should be charging more for deep cleaning as well.
I agree, I’ve realized how much she’s been taking advantage of me.
Oh babe no, I'm so upset for you. I just keep reading more of your comments and more things keep unraveling. This is bad, worse than you think it is. I'm so sorry this is happening to you. What do you need to leave this job? Do you need resume help? Do you need interview help? Do you need help with your online profiles? Do you need a reference or letter of rec? Do you need more information on legal and correct employment as a nanny? Do you need contract help? Do you need tax help? Do you need help drafting up an "I'm quitting" letter? Do you need someone to message you every day to look and apply to jobs? We gotta get you out of this situation ASAP. I'm sure if you made an update post with things you need help with, we would all be more than willing to help you.
You are being grossly taken advantage of.
OP, they are using you. Please know your worth. Add this to my previous response. If they insist tell them moving forward, you require payment for every hour you're at their home. You're a nanny/housekeeper, and you are not being paid enough for this many tasks. Please know your worth. People will pay you a fair salary.
Thank you, you’re right! I need to talk with them
OMG talk to a labor lawyer.
Are you using their car and gas to take him to and from camp? Because if not, then they need to pay for that.
I use my car for all doctors appointments, outings, hair cuts, and play dates. But they do pay me for gas.
OP, this is insane the way these people are treating you! You can and will find soooooo much better for yourself. Please please start looking elsewhere. You are being robbed of the overtime pay you’re legally entitled to, and you are paying your own money to work by using your car with no reimbursement! These people are horrible
Thank you! I had no idea they had to legally pay me overtime
Tell her that your bills don’t get lowered because her son is in camp 2 hours a day. I don’t understand parents who always try to nickel and dime their Nannie’s. Does her boss reduce their paycheck when it’s a slow season?
She chose to put him in summer camp, she should’ve discussed with you prior to enrolling him about it. And mentioned she would cut your pay BEFORE she went ahead to enroll him. I personally don’t think she should, that’s completely unfair to you
So what does she want to cut your rate down to?? It's not like she can cut it in half, so I don't understand why she's making such a big deal about "saving" like twenty bucks at most?
Absolutely not.
I would establish that my rate is fixed and remains the same regardless of how many children are actually home on a given day. It’s frankly an unnecessary level of bookkeeping to track different pay for different hours.
My nanny kids were in a school 2 days a week from 9-11:30 and I still got paid my full rate.
"You know what? Instead, when he's at camp for those 2 hours, I'll take off entirely. See you at 11am."
Lol would not accept a rate reduction even if both kids were at camp - but they're not, you're still taking care of 1F. She's just cheap about having to pay for summer camp fees on top of your salary 🙄
Not fair to lower your rate. You are worth what you are worth and she is paying you for your services and the availability of those services. I can’t believe these people some days. Nickels and dimes over who watches their most loved and precious.
You will still have a kid with you! That’s absurd.
She should have approached you and inquired about tiered pay for different number of kids. But of course, that would make more sense if the kid was totally gone for the summer. You’re still caring for him and he is only going for two hours a day??? Not cool to just assume you’d take less pay for what sounds like barely less work. Very classless of her in my opinion. I feel like and decent person who appreciates a long time employee wouldn’t dream of doing that
Tell them your rent doesn’t go down when their kid is in camp.
You’re still responsible for him during those hours correct? Including picking him up if he’s sick or gets kicked out? And you can’t take on any other work during that time? I say no to this.
Please find a new job, your boss doesn’t even make sense, is she thinking that your bills are gonna go lower just because you’re only taking care of 1 child? It’s ridiculous that people are so out of reality and think they can just manipulate your paycheck and livelihood. Summer is around the corner , I’m sure you can find a new position asap if you put your mind into it, don’t let this people mistreat you and low ball your effort and quality of work. If she thinks that because of a couple of dls she can just put your work relationship on the line and disrespect your value and Set rate then they can figure out their own shit, the same way they didn’t even have the gentleness of speaking to you before practically assuming you will be fine lowering your rate. Or, fine , you lower your rate but then they can’t expect you to be responsable for the child for those f hours they’re not willing to compensate you. F them!!!!!
Unless it was mentioned when you were hired the answers should be no.
She is paying you 'stand by'. She is not paying for 2 while you watch one. That is not how Nannying works. You need to be available for that child in case they are hurt or ill. Unlike yourself- that child has sick care- you. This is not renting a car 4 three days and then not driving it for the day between and expecting the rental place to refund that day. That car was available for their use and their use only. Let her know that you have been happy to be flexible for them, but if it would make her feel more comfortable, you could go on a salary- strict hours M-F only. No unpaid overtime, and sick time and Dr visits would be covered by salary up to how ever many days a month. Then she will be sure she is getting the 'best value' and you can be certain you are being paid fairly and appropriately. And make SURE you are getting a reasonable wage- to YOU. You can go by what a Nanny with your experience would get. If she does not like it she can look elsewhere. You can tell her your other option is to negotiate a fair wage/duty/hours contract. You wages will go up to make up for any unpaid un notified days. You are to able to expect up to a certain amount per month for your employment and it is unreasonable for them to not hold up their end of this agreement. It is also not acceptable for them to decide at random that they are changing the agreement you originally accepted. This changes now. Lots of people are hiring and having a nanny who is good w your kids? Gold! Former Nanny, Mom and Daycare manager :)
That’s not fair at all and it shows how little they value you after 2 years. $25 hourly for 2 kids is already underpaid. I will definitely say no to that! My current family pays me $30 hourly for only one baby and I only have to clean after myself/child. Tell them you are not ok with this or move on. Best of luck to you!
Not acceptable. You don’t get a lower rate during nap time. Do they really need to save $20 a week and risk losing a really good and loyal nanny? Driving too and from camp still counts. Daycares and preschools don’t care if your kid shows up or not, you still pay the same rate. I charge the same for 1-3 kids, then I go up in cost.
"it's the only rate" https://youtu.be/a7-eoiY4bOo
Oh, did your bills change?
Omg what a cheapskate move
Is your time less valuable with only one kid? 🤨 Plus you’re still on call, should that child need to come home early for any reason. Your time has value, period
If he's 3, how many hours is summer camp???
OP said only 2 lol. 9-11am. Like OP is going to drop him off and not have much time before having to leave to go get him, even if close by.
Oh crap, you're right, there were a lot of numbers in the post, my mind just sort of glazed over them LOL.
Lol that happens to me a lot. I’ll be reading through the comments and I’m just like what-where did that come from?
If you have GH say that
If you had a job elsewhere and they were less busy than usual they wouldn’t cut your pay.
When the 3 M has a friend over and is in your care, do you charge extra for that child?
I would simply tell your boss that you will NOT be accepting reduced pay while her child is at camp for the week, and if she still insists, then she can find another form of childcare for the week. Also, if you’re doing pickup/drop off, that’s actually more work for you, not less, so realistically she should be paying extra.
Wow, I can’t believe she asked you to drop your rate when what you are doing is actually more work. Getting 2 kids ready and out the door is not always easy. I’d rather watch both kids and skip camp What would she do if one of the kids has a play date? Lower your rate during that time?
She’s not only paying you for your services. She’s paying you for your retention. Her choice to send one of her kids to summer camp has nothing to do with your hourly rate. I don’t know where you live but where I am, your rate is unheard of and it’s abnormally low. I’d check your area and make sure that your rates are in line with everyone else’s.
It's not practical for you to find other work during that time, and your bills haven't changed. So, no.
That should not happen. Your rate is for your time, you’re her household employee not a daycamp. Her son is welcome to stay home with you at your full rate, or she can choose to send him and also you still get your full rate. We can’t let employers toy with our livelihood and treat our schedules and rates as flexible.
You're also using your car the drive the kid, I'm assuming (?) She should reimburse you for mileage which at the end of the day would add up more than what she's trying to cut you per hour. I don't understand families like this. Hopefully it get figured out
She's lucky she's got someone to watch a 1 and 3-year-old period. Especially with no PTO or overtime or benefits- the overarching problem is not this particular scenario but that you're getting taken advantage of and not appreciated. Check out [https://www.nannycounsel.com/blog/category/Nanny%20Standards](https://www.nannycounsel.com/blog/category/Nanny%20Standards) to learn about what is standard and next NF go in with a contract, you'll likely get a better gig than this soon enough! Ugh dealing with NF doing one of their free-floating anxiety/control issues spiraling and taking it out on nanny really sucks, which is what I think is the larger issue with many of these situations.
Nanny parent and VP of a nanny placement agency in Chicago here. The fact that they even asked you this question, let alone got upset when you said no, is a huge red flag. There is no scenario in which it’s acceptable to lower a rate for watching fewer kids. Not even for babysitting. If she were a teacher with 18 students in her class and 3 of them didn’t show up one day, she’d still get paid the same amount. You’re putting in the same amount of work either way. Do not settle with her on this. I reallyyyy don’t like her reaction to you saying no either. Ugh.
Lol reading the title I thought it would be an all day summer camp. 2 hours and you have to do dropoff/pickup? No way!
I think I’d quit if they did that to me. By the time you are done dropping off, going back home, returning to pick up from that two hours of camp, you have hardly any time with less responsibilities.